Your Development Application (DA) has been stalled by a council request for a Traffic Impact Statement (TIS), leaving you to face technical jargon, potential delays, and unexpected costs. Understanding what is a traffic impact statement (TIS)? is the critical first step to resolving this common roadblock. A TIS is not simply another bureaucratic hurdle; it is a professional engineering assessment required to demonstrate that your development’s traffic generation, parking, and access arrangements will not adversely affect the safety and efficiency of the local road network.
For many developers, this request is overwhelming, leading to confusion about whether a TIS or a full Traffic Impact Assessment (TIA) is even necessary. This guide removes the complexity. We provide a direct, no-jargon explanation of the TIS process, its key components, and why your council requires it. Read on to gain the clarity needed to navigate this requirement, prevent traffic-related issues from derailing your project, and secure your development approval.
Key Takeaways
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The fundamental answer to what is a traffic impact statement (TIS)? is that it’s the technical report a council requires to approve smaller developments. A full grasp of what is a traffic impact statement (TIS)? includes understanding its role in assessing your project’s effect on local traffic.
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Distinguishing between a TIS and a more complex Traffic Impact Assessment (TIA) is a critical part of understanding what is a traffic impact statement (TIS)?, ensuring you commission the correct, most cost-effective report for your project’s scale.
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A council-compliant TIS contains specific components, and understanding this structure helps you verify the quality of your report and provides a practical answer to what is a traffic impact statement (TIS)?.
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Once you’re clear on what is a traffic impact statement (TIS)?, securing one for your Development Application (DA) is a straightforward process, from initial site review to the final report submission.
Table of Contents
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What is a Traffic Impact Statement? The Definition for Developers
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TIS vs. TIA: Understanding the Critical Difference for Your Project
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The Process: How to Get a Traffic Impact Statement for Your DA
What is a Traffic Impact Statement? The Definition for Developers
A Traffic Impact Statement (TIS) is a specialised technical report required by local councils for small to medium-scale developments. Its primary function is to assess the traffic-related effects of a proposed project on the surrounding road network. For any developer asking "what is a traffic impact statement (TIS)?", the simplest answer is that it is a critical document designed to satisfy council planning requirements.
Think of a TIS as a health check-up for the local street system. It demonstrates to the council that your project will not create unforeseen safety issues, unacceptable congestion, or a loss of public amenity. Submitting a comprehensive, professionally prepared TIS is a crucial step in a successful Development Application (DA), helping to prevent costly delays or outright rejections.
For a detailed overview of the traffic analysis process, the following video is a helpful resource:
The Core Objectives of a TIS
A TIS is not a mere formality; it is a detailed assessment with specific, data-driven goals. The report must provide clear evidence and analysis to council planners on several key points:
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Quantify New Vehicle Trips: The report must accurately estimate the number of new vehicle movements the development will generate during peak hours. This process, known as Trip Generation, uses established rates from transport surveys and data.
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Assess Local Impact: It evaluates how these new trips will affect the safety and operational efficiency of nearby intersections and street segments.
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Ensure Compliance and Safety: The TIS verifies that the proposed vehicle access points, driveways, and car parking layouts are safe, functional, and compliant with relevant Australian Standards (e.g., AS 2890.1).
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Recommend Solutions: If any potential issues are identified, the report must propose practical and effective mitigation measures, such as road upgrades or revised access arrangements.
Who Prepares a Traffic Impact Statement?
A TIS must be prepared by a qualified and experienced traffic engineering consultant. Councils require these reports to be authored by a registered professional, such as a Registered Professional Engineer of Queensland (RPEQ) or an engineer holding equivalent state-based registration. Attempting to use an unqualified preparer is a significant risk; it almost guarantees the report will be rejected by the council, leading to wasted time and money. A professional ensures the analysis is robust, credible, and meets all council requirements. You can learn more about our experienced team of qualified traffic engineers here.
TIS vs. TIA: Understanding the Critical Difference for Your Project
In traffic engineering, the terms Traffic Impact Statement (TIS) and Traffic Impact Assessment (TIA) are frequently used, but they are not interchangeable. Understanding the distinction is critical for your development application (DA). The primary difference lies in the scale of the proposed development and, consequently, the complexity of the required report. Answering the question of ‘what is a traffic impact statement (TIS)?‘ involves understanding its place relative to the more comprehensive TIA. Selecting the correct report ensures compliance without incurring unnecessary expenses.
The core distinction is simple: a TIS is a concise report for smaller projects, while a TIA is an in-depth study for major developments. The following table provides a clear comparison:
| Feature | Traffic Impact Statement (TIS) | Traffic Impact Assessment (TIA) |
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| Project Size | Small-scale developments with localised traffic impact. | Large-scale, complex projects with significant network-wide impact. |
| Scope of Analysis | Focuses on site access, parking compliance (AS 2890.1), and basic traffic generation. | In-depth network analysis, intersection modelling (e.g., SIDRA), traffic surveys, and future growth scenarios. |
| Typical Cost (AUD) | A$2,000 – A$5,000 | A$10,000 – A$50,000+ |
When a Traffic Impact Statement (TIS) is Usually Sufficient
A TIS provides a focused overview of traffic matters for projects where the impact is expected to be minimal. A common trigger is a development projected to generate fewer than 100 vehicle trips in the weekday peak hour. However, this is a guideline only; requirements are dictated by the specific local council or state road authority. A TIS is typically sufficient for:
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Small residential flat buildings (e.g., under 20 units)
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Childcare centres
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Medical or dental clinics
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Small-scale commercial or industrial units
When You’ll Likely Need a Full Traffic Impact Assessment (TIA)
A full TIA is a detailed study for large developments that can significantly affect road network performance. It involves a rigorous process, including extensive data collection and sophisticated modelling. As defined by planning authorities, a comprehensive Traffic Impact Analysis is designed to evaluate the full effect of a major development on the surrounding transport network, often requiring analysis of multiple intersections. A TIA is generally mandated for projects such as:
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Large shopping centres and supermarkets
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Major residential subdivisions
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Hospitals or large educational institutions
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Projects requiring new traffic signals or significant road upgrades
The Key Components of a Council-Compliant TIS Report
A professional Traffic Impact Statement is a structured, evidence-based document designed to provide council planners with clear, verifiable information. Understanding its structure demystifies the process and shows what a quality report must include. A complete answer to what is a traffic impact statement (TIS) requires a methodical analysis of three critical areas, ensuring all potential issues are identified and addressed upfront.
The report systematically moves from establishing a baseline to forecasting future impact and providing expert recommendations. This transparent approach ensures the assessment is robust and satisfies all council requirements for a development application.
Existing Conditions and Site Analysis
This foundational section establishes the current traffic environment. It begins with a clear description of the proposed development and its specific location. Our engineers then conduct a detailed analysis of the surrounding road network, identifying nearby intersections, road classifications (e.g., arterial vs. local), and existing traffic controls. We also document the availability and proximity of public transport services, pedestrian footpaths, and cycleways to provide a complete picture of the site’s transport context.
Traffic Generation and Parking Assessment
Here, we quantify the development’s potential impact. Using established rates from council codes or the former RMS (now TfNSW), we calculate the number of vehicle trips the new development is expected to generate during peak morning and afternoon hours. A corresponding car parking demand assessment is performed to ensure the proposed supply is adequate. Crucially, we verify that the proposed car park layout-including space dimensions, aisle widths, and ramp grades-complies with Australian Standards (AS 2890.1) for safety and accessibility.
Impact Analysis and Recommendations
The final section synthesises all data into a clear conclusion. We analyse how the new traffic will affect the performance and safety of the local street network. This includes a rigorous review of site access points, driver sight lines for vehicles entering and exiting the property, and the efficiency of internal circulation. The report concludes with definitive recommendations designed to mitigate any adverse impacts and satisfy council requirements, ensuring a smooth path to approval. A comprehensive TIS that covers all these essential components is a core part of the professional services we provide to secure development consent.
The Process: How to Get a Traffic Impact Statement for Your DA
Securing a Traffic Impact Statement for your Development Application (DA) is a structured process designed for clarity and efficiency. At ML Traffic Engineers Pty Ltd, we manage every step with senior-level expertise. Our process ensures you understand not just the final report, but the entire journey of answering the core question: what is a traffic impact statement (TIS)? for your specific project. We pride ourselves on a direct, hands-on approach; the senior consultant who provides your quote is the same expert who completes the technical analysis and writes your report.
Step 1: Initial Consultation and Scoping
The process begins with a direct discussion with one of our senior traffic engineers. We assess your development’s unique needs and the specific requirements set by the local council. This initial phase is crucial for establishing a clear scope of works and a firm project timeline.
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Project Discussion: We review your architectural plans and any relevant correspondence from council to understand the project parameters.
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Scope Definition: We determine the exact traffic and parking assessments required to satisfy council’s conditions for your DA.
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Fixed-Fee Proposal: You receive a detailed, fixed-fee proposal with no hidden costs, outlining the full scope of work and deliverables.
Step 2: Data Collection and Technical Analysis
Once the scope is agreed upon, our engineer undertakes all necessary technical work. This phase involves a thorough investigation to gather robust data, including conducting site visits to assess existing conditions, arranging traffic surveys if required, and performing the detailed analysis. Key components include trip generation calculations, parking demand assessments, and vehicle swept path diagrams, all performed in-house to ensure full compliance with Australian Standards and local planning codes.
Step 3: Report Finalisation and DA Submission
The final stage is focused on delivering a clear, compliant report. We provide a draft TIS for your review to ensure all project aspects are correctly represented. After your approval, we issue certified final copies ready for your DA package. Our commitment extends beyond delivery; we provide post-submission support and are available to address any follow-up questions from council to facilitate a smooth assessment process.
Ready to ensure your project’s traffic planning is handled by seasoned experts? Contact us today for a free, no-obligation quote.
Navigating Your DA with a Compliant Traffic Impact Statement
Understanding what is a traffic impact statement (TIS)? is the first critical step towards a successful Development Application. As we’ve covered, this essential report details your project’s effect on the local road network and must contain specific components to satisfy council requirements. A professionally prepared TIS is not just a document; it’s a strategic tool to prevent costly delays and rejections, ensuring your project moves forward efficiently.
At ML Traffic Engineers, we specialise in delivering council-compliant TIS reports. With over 15 years of experience with Australian councils, we offer direct access to our senior traffic engineers. We stand by our unique promise: the consultant who provides your quote is the expert who does the work. This guarantees accountability and a deep understanding of your project from start to finish.
Ensure your DA is supported by an authoritative report. Get a free, no-obligation quote for your Traffic Impact Statement and let our expertise guide your project to a successful outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Traffic Impact Statement cost in Australia?
The cost of a Traffic Impact Statement is determined by the project’s scale and complexity. A straightforward TIS for a small-scale development typically ranges from A$2,000 to A$4,000. Larger, more complex projects that require detailed traffic modelling, on-site traffic surveys, or extensive liaison with road authorities can cost A$10,000 or more. We provide a fixed-fee proposal based on your specific project requirements to ensure cost certainty for our clients.
How long does it take to prepare a Traffic Impact Statement?
The timeframe for preparing a TIS depends on its scope. A report for a minor development with clear council requirements can often be completed within one to two weeks. Projects that necessitate traffic data collection, complex analysis of intersection performance, or consultation with state road authorities will require a longer lead time, typically between four and six weeks. We work efficiently to meet your project deadlines while maintaining the highest technical standards for the assessment.
What happens if the TIS identifies a significant traffic problem?
If a TIS identifies a potential issue, such as a parking shortfall or an adverse impact on the surrounding road network, it is the role of the traffic engineer to propose viable solutions. An experienced consultant will recommend practical mitigation measures, which could include revised site access designs, intersection upgrades, or a detailed parking management plan. The objective is to address the council’s concerns with professional engineering solutions, facilitating a positive assessment of your development.
Can a bad Traffic Impact Statement get my Development Application rejected?
Yes. A TIS that is inaccurate, incomplete, or fails to properly address the relevant planning controls presents a significant risk to your Development Application (DA). Council traffic engineers rely on this report to verify that a project is compliant and will not create unsafe or inefficient conditions. A substandard TIS can lead to requests for additional information, project delays, or an outright refusal of the DA, making professional preparation essential for a successful outcome.
Do I need a TIS for a simple change of use or a small extension?
A TIS may be required even for seemingly minor changes. A change of use, for instance from a retail shop to a restaurant, will have different traffic generation and car parking demand characteristics that council must assess. Similarly, a small extension could trigger the need for a TIS if it impacts the number of required parking spaces or alters vehicle access arrangements. It is always best to check the local council’s planning scheme or consult a professional.
What information do I need to provide to get a quote for a TIS?
To receive a prompt and accurate fixed-fee proposal for a Traffic Impact Statement, we require a complete set of architectural plans (including site plan, floor plans, and elevations). We also need the full site address and a clear description of the proposed development, including details like the number of dwellings, gross floor area (GFA), or number of employees/patrons. This information allows us to accurately assess the scope of work required by the council.
What areas do we cover?
Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Hobart, Perth, Adelaide, Darwin and surrounding areas.
